The Mobile Internet Content Coalition (the MICC) advocates for policies and provide educational opportunities that encourage all members of the mobile Internet ecosystem, regulators, and policymakers to adopt technology-neutral regulations that serve to empower consumer choice and provide a level playing field for all mobile content providers.
Today they're doing just that, in reaction to Sprint's move to restrict certain content in text messages:
According to information obtained by MICC, a trade association that advocates for policies ensuring the mobile Internet remains open, accessible and competitive, Sprint’s content restrictions are expected to go into effect on April 1, 2011. Once implemented, the restrictions will prevent organizations, like newspapers, health care providers, and first responders, from sending web links and coupons to consumers over the Sprint network. Sprint also intends to implement significant price increases for businesses using their network to send text messages.
Sprint’s unilateral imposition of these content restrictions and price increases is the latest proof that the wireless marketplace in the United States lacks sufficient competition. “It is ironic that just as Sprint is calling on the FCC to block the proposed merger of AT&T and T-Mobile because of its fears regarding competition, it is simultaneously planning to abuse its market power by imposing unreasonable content restrictions and exorbitant fees on consumers,” said Amanda Antico-Majkowski, the Executive Director of the MICC.
Head over to the MICC website to read the full release and their filing with the FCC.
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